Elvis Presley Turns 80

80 years ago, on January 8th, 1935, the King of Rock took his first breath. Elvis Presley was born to Vernon and Gladys Presley in their two room house in Mississippi. His twin brother was stillborn, so Elvis was raised an only child. As he grew up, Presley listened to many types of music, including gospel, pop, country, and R&B. When he began to sing, his variety of influences produced a new kind of sound. Elvis began his singing career in Memphis, Tennessee in 1954. His recording contract was sold to RCA Victor in 1955, and by 1956 he had become a global sensation.

Elvis’s 80th birthday was celebrated all over the globe. January 4th to 10th was declared “Elvis Week”, and festivities were abundant at Graceland, Elvis’s home. During the celebrations, an auction of Elvis memorabilia was held. Elvis’s first recording, of a song called “My Happiness”, was sold for $300,000! Family, friends, and fans gathered around the huge 8 tiered cake, in honor of the late rock star. Through celebrations, memories, impersonators, and music, Elvis Presley will never be forgotten.